Best VPN for Telegram in 2024

Telegram is a well-known instant messaging app used by people who want to stay hidden from mass surveillance and censorship. The service is so effective that governments frequently try to block it during times of turmoil, such as the recent Telegram ban in Iraq. Sometimes they’re successful, making it impossible to use the platform altogether.

This is where a Virtual Private Network (or VPN) for Telegram swoops in to save the day. It can redirect your online traffic through servers where the app is available. Plus, it grants bonus encryption and prevents internet service providers from knowing you’re a Telegram user.

Staying out of the crosshairs of oppressive governments is no easy task, and the consequences of getting ousted can be devastating. This is why I only recommend VPNs with airtight security. Read on to learn what makes them ideal for Telegram.

Best VPNs for Telegram: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Telegram
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Reliable Telegram VPN with unlimited connections
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Effective Telegram VPN with a free version available
   8.6
4. ExpressVPN

   Fast and security-focused VPN for unblocking Telegram
   8.4
5. CyberGhost VPN

   Cheap Telegram VPN with numerous servers globally
   8.9

Why do I need a VPN for Telegram?

Surveillance states like Belarus, China, and Russia block end-to-end encrypted VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps because they make it impossible to monitor citizens. They have also been restricted to prevent organizing mass protests (as was the case in Hong Kong in 2019).

Another example is Brazil banning the service countrywide in 2023 because the company behind the app failed to provide details about its users. The ban was lifted a few days later, but that doesn't mean a similar situation won't happen again.

That’s why it’s crucial to have an extra line of defense in the form of a reliable VPN service. It redirects your connection through remote servers, hiding your IP address and curbing geographical restrictions. Plus, your web traffic is protected with top-of-the-line AES-256 encryption to prevent mass surveillance.

A solid VPN improves your day-to-day browsing by blocking malicious ads, unwelcome trackers, and malware. This applies even when visiting risky Telegram channels where virus distribution isn’t unheard of. On the flip side, a well-rounded VPN can also unlock extra entertainment opportunities, e.g., different Netflix libraries.

However, if you know how a VPN works, you’re rightfully concerned about data harvesting and government intervention. That makes picking a reliable provider even more challenging.

Top 5 secure VPNs for Telegram

1. NordVPN – the most secure and confidential way of unblocking Telegram
2. Surfshark VPN – swift and feature-rich VPN for Telegram
3. Proton VPN – robust Telegram VPN with a 100% free version
4. ExpressVPN – reliable and effective Telegram VPN
5. CyberGhost – well-rounded and affordable VPN for Telegram

A good VPN for Telegram needs to strike a balance between trustworthiness and performance.

I looked for services that treat your data responsibly. This requires having a strict no-logs policy and an abundance of security features. Also, modern tunneling protocols, such as WireGuard, guarantee reliable connectivity and swift message delivery, which is extra crucial when exchanging videos. It’s the best option because it’s efficient and secure, while older technologies like OpenVPN are past their prime but still adequate.

There are plenty of other options to consider since VPNs are so versatile. That’s why I suggest you read each provider’s brief overview (or the complete review if you need more information) before picking a VPN for Telegram.

1. NordVPN – the ultimate VPN for Telegram

The #1 VPN for accessing Telegram anywhere is NordVPN. It has an excellent arsenal of security features and provides industry-leading connectivity with its proprietary technology.

The network consists of 6900+ servers across 113+ countries. If regular servers aren’t enough for you, try out some of the specialty options (Onion over VPN, P2P, obfuscated, double VPN, dedicated IP). Whichever server I chose, the connectivity was excellent with either NordLynx or OpenVPN tunneling protocols.

Digital security is covered with the all-in-one Threat Protection feature. It blocks malicious ads, trackers, dangerous web domains, and checks files for viruses. Best of all, I was able to enjoy these benefits even when the VPN connection wasn’t enabled.

Grab a NordVPN coupon code to save up to 74% and receive 3 bonus months for free when signing up. Payment options include anonymous methods like cryptocurrencies and cash if you’re concerned about leaving a trail. Lastly, your subscription is insured with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – the most cost-effective Telegram VPN

Surfshark VPN is the ideal choice if you’ve lost count of the devices with Telegram installed. The service supports unlimited device connections without skipping a beat in performance.

Firstly, the 100% RAM-only fleet contains 3200+ servers in 100+ countries. You can choose between standard, Static IP, or MultiHop servers to best suit your needs. Additionally, features like IP Rotator and NoBorders mode will keep potential cyberstalkers off your trail. Best of all, the WireGuard tunneling protocol ensured me unrelenting connectivity.

Customers can upgrade the standard Surfshark package with perks typically unavailable with virtual private networks. For example, I added antivirus features to scan my system and block dangerous files. Meanwhile, Search adds an unbiased online search engine that doesn’t track your queries. Lastly, Alert will detect any data breaches with your name on them.

Use a valid Surfshark discount code to purchase the VPN with massive 86% savings and 3 bonus months of subscription time at no extra cost. Don’t forget that a 30-day money-back warranty has you covered.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. Proton VPN – user-friendly VPN for Telegram with a free version

Proton VPN is another great option for Telegram for security-focused people. Its huge network of servers and robust privacy features allow it to bypass most geo-restrictions and censorship easily. Proton VPN even offers a completely free version, however it only covers servers in five countries. If that's enough for you, the free version also provides great security and sufficient speeds for content-heavy messaging and even streams.

Premium Proton VPN version manages 9200+ servers in 110+ locations, making it one of the market's server-richest VPN service providers. Thanks to the WireGuard tunneling protocol, I switched between servers in various countries without losing connectivity and speeds.

The service is based in Switzerland, so it has a strict no-logs policy. Additionally, Proton VPN offers advanced AES-256 encryption, hides your IP address, has a reliable kill switch, and blocks various ads and malware, so you can safely use Telegram.

Get Proton VPN for $3.59/month, and don’t forget to use coupons for a better deal. If you’re still not sure, Proton VPN offers a great free version of a service. Also, you can take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

4. ExpressVPN – super trustworthy VPN for Telegram

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more reliable VPN for Telegram than ExpressVPN. The service passed multiple independent reviews and couldn’t expose its customers even when authorities seized some of its server hardware. It also didn’t disappoint me regarding connection performance, thanks to the proprietary Lightway tunneling protocol.

The service boasts 3000+ servers across 105+ countries, all of which utilize RAM-only hardware to avoid prolonged data storage on hard drives. Furthermore, the service is located in the British Virgin Islands, where mandatory data retention laws are non-existent.

I had no issues unlocking Telegram and other restricted services abroad because all connections are obfuscated by default. Also, the Threat Manager tool ensured that apps and websites didn’t share my information using online trackers.

Use an exclusive ExpressVPN coupon code to snag discounts up to 48% off and 3 bonus months of subscription time. If you’re not fully satisfied at first, consider using the 30-day money-back guarantee exit route.

For a deeper investigation of ExpressVPN, read our ExpressVPN review.

5. CyberGhost – solid Telegram VPN with many specialty servers

Go with CyberGhost if you need no shortage of server options for unblocking Telegram. The reasonably-priced VPN includes over 11700 servers across 100+ countries, thus outnumbering many of its competitors. Naturally, the fleet is split into categories to make it easier for users to pick the perfect server for their needs.

I didn't encounter connectivity issues because CyberGhost implemented the modern WireGuard protocol to ensure excellent speeds. Meanwhile, Content Blocker prevented ads and other online nuisances from getting in the way while I surfed the web.

Rest assured because CyberGhost hails from Romania and isn’t obligated to store any information about its customers. The service even conducted an independent audit of its no-logs policy to confirm this practice. Plus, it offers privacy-focused NoSpy servers that the provider maintains without any outside interference.

Snag a CyberGhost coupon and watch the discounts rise to a whopping 83%. Some plans even include 3 months of bonus subscription time for free. You can play around with this VPN for quite a while before making a decision because it includes a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of CyberGhost VPN, read our CyberGhost VPN review.

How I selected these Telegram VPNs

I used a clear set of criteria by which I selected the best VPNs for Telegram. Here’s a brief overview of the most crucial aspects in order of importance.

1. Top-notch security. Digital security features are fundamental to staying immune to surveillance and other threats, including viruses and malware. At the very least, you’ll require a VPN with a kill switch and DNS leak protection to prevent data exposure.
2. Excellent privacy. A virtual private network can be considered confidential if it’s based away from the Five Eyes alliance. Additionally, the zero-logs policy should be independently audited to verify its integrity.
3. Wicked-fast speed. Instant messaging apps require breakneck speeds to be able to deliver messages swiftly. As such, it’s vital to use VPNs that don’t bog down your connectivity too much. You can stay up-to-date with the performance of the top providers using VPN speed test.
4. Servers. Telegram users are scattered across the globe, including regions with less-than-stellar freedom of speech rights. That means your chosen VPN must have servers in as many countries as possible for optimal connectivity and to support hordes of freedom-thirsty netizens.
5. Price. Although freedom of speech should be freely available to everyone, the sad reality is that it’s not. And while plenty of free VPN services are available, most aren’t good enough for Telegram. Therefore, I recommend premium services with excellent price-to-performance ratios.
6. 24/7 customer support. Countries that block Telegram also restrict VPNs for the same reasons. Therefore, you’ll want easy access to expert assistance whenever dealing with digital blockades.
7. Compatibility. Telegram is compatible with all desktop and mobile devices, meaning most VPNs are suitable. However, I picked router-compatible VPNs so you could use them to protect your entire household.

Telegram VPN comparison

As you can see, NordVPN grants the most comprehensive security and performance package at an approachable price. I recommend you to combine it with other Nord Security products to further enhance its already impressive arsenal and cover every facet of your overall security.

Where Telegram is banned

A handful of governments try to block Telegram to limit freedom of speech and the spread of information. The political landscape is always in flux, and the list of countries can change in the future.

Additionally, some countries (for example, Germany) don’t block Telegram entirely but a selection of hate-speech-spreading channels. Some governments only block Telegram temporarily in times of unrest, as was the case in Brazil. One such case arose quite recently, on August 6, 2023, as Iraq banned Telegram due to national security concerns and alleged user data violations. However, Telegram restrictions like this don’t usually last very long.

That doesn’t mean you can rest easy and skip having a virtual private network. In fact, you should purchase a VPN for Telegram while nothing devastating is happening. When times get tough, governments block Telegram, VPNs, and countless other freedom-ensuring software, meaning you need to stock up as soon as possible.

Besides, a virtual private network is useful in countless other scenarios, such as streaming, torrenting, and hiding your location. So don’t hesitate and try one out right now!

Unblock Telegram from anywhere with NordVPN

VPN is not working with Telegram: solution

When it comes to blocking software, governments aren’t as clueless as you’d expect. This applies to both Telegram and VPNs. Thankfully, you can try a few tricks to defy oppressive regimes and their censorship attempts.

• Check for IP and DNS leaks. Using a low-quality VPN service (for example, one that didn’t make my list of recommendations) can result in leaky connections. That means your IP address is exposed, making it easier for authorities to track you down. Don’t let that happen by enabling the kill switch and using dnsleaktest.com to check your connection.
• Enable Stealth VPN. Blocking VPN services involves restricting their traffic entirely. Luckily, the most secure providers have features that mask your activities and make them appear as regular HTTPS traffic. It’s commonly called Stealth VPN and can bypass VPN blocks easily.
• Switch to another server. Another method of limiting VPN use is by blocking provider IP addresses. However, flagging all of them is impossible since they’re constantly renewed. This means connecting to another server will eventually grant you the internet freedom you rightfully deserve.
• Update your software. Sometimes you’re one software update away from fixing all your headaches. Make sure both your VPN and Telegram are using the latest version.

If nothing works, there’s always the option to get first-hand information from customer support experts of your VPN or Telegram. After all, each provider has its own unique way of curbing restrictions.

Do I recommend a free VPN for Telegram?

Accessing what you deserve (freedom of speech) shouldn’t cost anything. However, that doesn’t mean you can go with the first free VPN you encounter because unverified providers can be government honeypots for catching dissidents.

On the other hand, there are a handful of reliable no-cost VPNs you can try. But remember that they usually include other drawbacks that make it impossible to unblock Telegram. For example, you’ll have to deal with:

• Monthly data caps
• Speed throttling
• Fewer security features
• Minimal server options
• Unreliable or zero access to Telegram

As such, your best course of action is using reliable premium VPNs that only answer to you and not some other authority. You can even gain their perks temporarily if you need urgent access to Telegram. This is possible using VPNs with free trials and generous money-back guarantee periods.

You’ll be happy to know that NordVPN fits this description and can be unlocked for 7 days completely free. All you need is an Android device to visit the Google Play Store with to claim the trial. If you can’t do that, consider utilizing the 30-day money-back guarantee instead.

Access Telegram with NordVPN

Is Telegram actually secure?

Authorities wouldn’t go to the trouble of blocking Telegram if it wasn’t secure. However, it isn’t the messiah of secure messaging apps either. Here are a few things to consider before committing to Telegram.

• Only secret chats use end-to-end encryption. Regular messages aren’t encrypted, plain and simple. You must use the secret chats function when sharing critical information.
• Some data is stored for up to 12 months. Telegram’s privacy policy states that certain information (IP address, device specs, username changes) are stored for up to 12 months. Additionally, the service complies with legal requests from authorities.
• Telegram uses the proprietary MTProto protocol. While open-source, the messaging app uses a proprietary encryption protocol called MTProto. Some could argue that it isn’t as secure as widely-used alternatives because it wasn’t tested as thoroughly.

Messaging app alternatives

Having second thoughts? No need to fret–the messaging app market is saturated with plenty of other options. If you’re using a truly secure VPN, it doesn’t matter much which app you’re using.

• Signal. This app has it all – no subscriptions, open-source software, and end-to-end encryption by default. Its user base skyrocketed to over 40 million as of January 2021.
• TextNow. TextNow is a solid VoIP choice. However, it’s geographically restricted and only available in roughly 28 countries, so you’ll need a TextNow VPN to make the most of it.
• Discord. Discord is one of the most well-known chatting platforms in the world. Various communities use it across the globe to stay in touch with large groups of people. Unfortunately, it isn’t blessed with basic privacy features, making a VPN for Discord an essential purchase.
• WhatsApp. Some might scoff at the idea of using a VoIP owned by Meta (formerly known as Facebook). But it’s not so bad, especially considering it has end-to-end encryption. Learn more on your WhatsApp review.
• Viber. Another easy-to-use and popular VoIP and instant messaging app. The service has around 1 billion users worldwide and is owned by Rakuten.

Conclusion

A VPN for Telegram is beneficial because it adds an extra layer of security and grants access to the service when authorities try to restrict it. However, it’s crucial to pick a trustworthy and well-performing provider for maximum benefit.

My #1 recommendation for Telegram is NordVPN. It hails from privacy-friendly Panama and was audited multiple times by independent third parties to verify its trustworthiness. Best of all, it includes antivirus and web protection tools at no extra cost to ensure a secure experience while using Telegram.

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FAQ

Can I use VPN for Telegram?

Yes, a VPN for Telegram is highly recommended. It ensures uninterrupted access to the messaging service and bonus security against mass surveillance. Plus, it allows you to hide your IP address, actual location, and unlock geographically-restricted content.

Which VPN is best for Telegram?

NordVPN is the best VPN for Telegram. It’s located in privacy-friendly Panama, has an audited zero-logs policy, and cutting-edge security features. You won’t notice connection issues because the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol grants industry-leading download speeds.

How can I unblock Telegram?

You can unblock Telegram using a VPN. The program can change your location and grant access to the messaging service if it’s geographically restricted. Additionally, it grants AES-256 encryption to prevent snooping by authorities.

Is it legal to use a VPN with Telegram?

That depends on your current location. A few countries restrict Telegram (and sometimes VPNs), making it illegal to access these services. Thankfully, the authorities won’t know what you’re up to if you’re using a secure VPN.

Can I use a free VPN for Telegram?

Yes, there is a chance to unblock Telegram with a free VPN. However, it’s vital to choose a trustworthy provider (for example, Proton VPN) that wouldn’t expose your data and location. But keep in mind that a no-cost service is not nearly as reliable as a premium VPN.

Does Telegram ban IP addresses?

Telegram tracks user IP addresses to block spammers and abusers effectively. That means it potentially knows your true whereabouts. The service also claims it will disclose your IP address if legally obliged by authorities, but that it hasn’t happened so far.